Book 4: Chapter Ep
The clamor outside could be heard through the open window.
Cosimo knew it was the sound of the city under renovation. Mealtars had suffered significant property damage from the battle. But the merchants saw it as an opportunity, busy gathering construction materials instead of lamenting the state of affairs. It wouldn’t take long for the city to get back on its feet, better than ever.
“This must embody the indomitable spirit of merchants,” someone commented, sitting beside him.
It was Lowellmina, who turned her ear toward the noise outside.
“I doubt the people of Mealtars will ever lose sight of that.” Cosimo offered a smile before bowing his head. “I apologize for causing you trouble throughout this matter, Princess Lowellmina. With the summit cut short, I am more aware of my own inadequacy than ever.”
“Don’t be so critical of yourself. You could have never anticipated this turn of events.” Lowellmina smiled. “Besides, Mealtars has sided with my faction.”
This recent uproar was starting to make people think that it was time to review the powers that Mealtars had been granted. They imagined a later discussion would settle the level of Imperial interference allowed in the territory. But they knew they wouldn’t be able to buy their freedom as they had in the past.
Following Demetrio the Mastermind, Bardloche and Manfred kept their distance from the city that they had once surrounded and attacked. Therefore, they could only look to Lowellmina for protection.
She continued. “Though that’s just the official stance. I know the people have their hearts elsewhere. But this is enough for me.”